How to Handle Long-term Remote Work Requests When Returning to Office Isn't an Option?

Hello, I am Poonacha M.P., Head of Aviation and Accountable Manager working for a Non-Scheduled Air Operator based in Bangalore. In view of the lockdown we had for the past two months, most of our employees had left Bangalore by March 24, 2020. Currently, we have extended WORK FROM HOME until June 10, 2020. Some employees have returned and completed their quarantine period. However, some staff members who have been with us for over 10 years are not willing to come back and are instead asking us to extend WORK FROM HOME for the next two months, which is not possible.

Could anyone provide suggestions on how to handle this issue? Also, please let me know if the company can ask for the travel history of these staff members.

Communicating the Need to Return to Work

You need to communicate to all employees that they need to return to work as working from home is not a viable alternative. There has been sufficient improvement in the overall situation in the city, but strict adherence to safety precautions is necessary. You should caution them that unless they report to work, the industry cannot afford the salaries being paid.

Preparing an SOP for Office Activities

Prepare a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the activities being performed in the office. While being strict regarding office attendance, you have to go the extra mile to assuage any fears and apprehensions they may have. Unless you act decisively, the employees who have reported so far will have grievances, which could be more harmful.